The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized English language test for people whose first language is not English. It was started in 1989 and is jointly run by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English.
IELTS is used by many universities, colleges, and other institutions around the world. It is accepted in countries like Australia, the UK, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, European countries, and by more than 3,000 institutions in the United States. Many professional organizations also accept IELTS scores.
There are two types of IELTS tests:
- Academic – for those who want to study at a university or college.
- General Training – for those who are going to English-speaking countries for work, training, or immigration.
In 2023, IELTS introduced a feature called One Skill Retake for computer-based tests. This allows test takers to retake just one section of the test—Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking—instead of doing the whole test again.
IELTS is also used for immigration. For example:
- It is approved by the UK government for visa applications inside the UK.
- It meets immigration requirements in Australia and New Zealand.
- In Canada, IELTS is accepted along with other tests like TEF and CELPIP.
There is no pass or fail in IELTS. Everyone who takes the test gets a score between Band 1 (non-user) and Band 9 (expert user). If someone does not attempt the test at all, they receive Band 0. Each university or organization decides what score they require. Usually, test results are considered valid for two years, unless the person can show that they have continued to use or improve their English.